01/22/2026
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As we approach the coming days, weather forecasts indicate the possibility of severe winter weather conditions in many parts of our diocese. I wish to offer the following pastoral guidance
regarding the Sunday Mass obligation.
The Church teaches that participation in Sunday Mass is a serious obligation for the faithful.
However, at the same time, the Church also recognizes that this obligation does not bind when attendance would be impossible or would involve a grave inconvenience or danger.
Therefore, I ask each of you to exercise prudent discretion and good judgment during this winter storm. No one is expected to place themselves or others at risk because of hazardous travel
conditions, serious health concerns, or other circumstances that would make attendance unsafe or unreasonable. In such cases, the obligation to attend Mass is excused.
Those who are unable to attend Mass for these reasons are encouraged, insofar as possible, to sanctify the Lord’s Day through prayer at home, reading of Sacred Scripture—especially the Sunday readings—or by joining a televised or online Mass.
I ask our pastors to provide appropriate local guidance availing themselves of parish social media and other means of communication, making prudent decisions regarding the celebration of Masses as weather conditions warrant.
Entrusting you to the protection of Our Lord Jesus and the care of the Blessed Virgin Mary, I
remain
Sincerely yours in the joy of Christ’s service,
+ Michael J. Sis
Bishop of San Angelo
